R&D Technology Technician - Rheology and Thermal

Vestcom is the industry leader in technology-driven shelf-edge solutions for Retailers and CPGs. Our data-integrated media solutions drive sales and loyalty, engaging shoppers where it matters most – the point of decision. Our patented innovation has been trusted by top retailers for more than 30 years to drive productivity and profitable growth. For our growing team of over 1000 employees, Vestcom offers the stability of an established company with the entrepreneurial spirit and fast-paced environment of a start-up.

Vestcom’s core values are at the heart of our organization, representing our fundamental beliefs and serving as our guiding light in for how we conduct business and interact with each other.

Vestcom is a standalone business unit of Avery Dennison, a Fortune 500 leader in materials science and packaging materials. Learn more at .

Job Description

Avery Dennison is seeking an R&D Technology Technician (Rheology and Thermal) to join our Materials Group North America in Mentor, Ohio. This position resides in the Materials Science and Characterization (MSC) Advanced Analytical Group, which focuses on the development, optimization, and characterization of materials technologies worldwide.

The successful candidate will be responsible for product performance testing and characterization, with a focus on surface science and rheology. This role includes supporting test method development and analysis for project teams across a global innovation network.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform routine analytical tests, including (but not limited to) physical property measurements within the Rheology and Thermal group, as well as product performance testing and prototyping under the supervision of senior technical staff. .
  

• Operate polymer processing equipment, including but not limited to internal mixers (e.g., Brabender), hot press, and extruders. .
  

• Collaborate with technical teams to conduct testing and provide analytical results for further interpretation.
  

• Develop, update, and maintain test methods proactively.
  

• Estimate and manage completion timelines for assigned testing requests, balancing multiple priorities to ensure timely delivery.
  

• Prepare sample materials and conduct experiments according to standard procedures with a high degree of accuracy.
  

• Create and maintain technical documentation, report data via ELN/LIMS systems, and contribute to the structured population of technical databases.
  

• Handle multiple concurrent workstreams efficiently.
  

• Coordinate with cross-functional colleagues across Avery Dennison divisions and with external partners (e.g., Quality, R&D teams, suppliers, customers).
  

• Ensure compliance with all safety and quality procedures.
  

Qualifications

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree with 2+ years of lab/industry experience degree in Polymer Science, Materials Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
  

• Experience in Polymer Processing is preferred.
  

• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking skills, with the ability to design experiments that address complex technical challenges.
  

• Demonstrated hands-on experimentation skills; prior experience in the adhesives or plastics industry is a plus.
  

• Proficient in verbal and written communication, with the ability to summarize key findings and write comprehensive technical reports.
  

• Familiarity with ELN/LIMS systems and data management is an advantage.
  

• High attention to detail, scientific curiosity, and the ability to learn quickly.
  

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other scientific software tools.
  

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in team environments.
  

• Strong organizational skills and a service-oriented, proactive mindset.
  

• Capable of executing experiments and trials as instructed, with demonstrated scientific insight and strategic thinking.
  

• Competence in documenting experimental results and interpreting data.
  

• Skilled in moderately complex mathematical computations.
  

• Ability to complete moderately complex technical tasks with minimal supervision and to prepare effective technical recommendations.
  

• Experience in working cross-functionally to meet defined technical objectives.
  

• Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
  

• Strong environmental awareness and a safety-first mindset.

Additional Information

The salary range for this position is  $54,825 - $73,100/ year.

The hiring base salary range above represents what Avery Dennison reasonably expects to pay for this position as of the date of this posting. Actual salaries will vary within the range, and in some circumstances may be above or below the range, based on various factors including but not limited to a candidate’s relevant skills, experience, education and training, and location, as well as the job scope and complexity, responsibilities, and regular and/or necessary travel required for the position, which may change depending on the candidate pool. Avery Dennison reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or other protected status. EEOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or other protected status. EEOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.